Sr. Director, Aviation Regulatory Engineering

US-MD-Germantown

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Req #: 94963
Type: Fulltime-Regular
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				Overview:

The Sr. Director, Aviation Regulatory Engineering will lead global efforts to secure regulatory approvals, market access rights, and compliance clearances necessary to deliver next-generation inflight connectivity solutions. This role requires a seasoned leader with deep expertise in satellite licensing, spectrum management, and aviation equipment certification, who can influence international policy, navigate complex regulatory environments, and ensure seamless global service continuity.

Responsibilities:

Key  Responsibilities:

* Develop and execute a comprehensive global market access strategy for LEO and GEO satellite-based inflight connectivity services
* Secure required regulatory authorizations, spectrum licenses, and satellite landing rights across multiple jurisdictions
* Lead engagement with international regulatory and standards bodies (FCC, ISED, ITU, CEPT, WRC) to shape policy and safeguard operational interests
* Oversee entity and branch formation in key markets to ensure compliance with foreign ownership, spectrum access, and operational requirements
* Direct cross-functional teams-engineering, legal, and operations-to obtain hardware and equipment certifications for airborne terminals, antennas, and modems
* Negotiate agreements with network operators and government agencies for terrestrial backhaul and network integration
* Ensure compliance with international security frameworks (e.g., CALEA, GDPR) and jurisdiction-specific lawful intercept and data retention rules
* Manage regulatory due diligence for mergers, acquisitions, and partnerships to ensure service continuity and mitigate legal risk
* Lead budget planning, external counsel oversight, and internal team development within the Market Access function

Qualifications:

Education and Experience:

* Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Telecommunications, or related technical field
* 20+ years of leadership in telecommunications, satellite communications, or aviation connectivity, with direct experience in LEO and GEO satellite systems
* Proven track record of securing global regulatory approvals for inflight connectivity or similar services

Skills and Qualifications:

* Deep knowledge of spectrum management, frequency coordination, and satellite licensing processes
* Direct experience with aviation equipment certification processes and compliance standards
* Strong leadership skills with the ability to influence policy and manage stakeholder relationships at the highest levels
* Excellent communication and negotiation skills with the ability to operate in complex multi-jurisdictional environments

Preferred Qualifications

* Advanced degree in Engineering, Telecommunications, or related field.
* Established relationships with global regulatory authorities, standards bodies, and aviation industry associations.
* Experience leading regulatory functions in support of large-scale M&A transactions
* Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to assess regulatory risk and drive innovative compliance solutions
			
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